5-8 weeks
Visits for exams, tests or ultrasound
- First visit with nurse
- If you are a high-risk patient, the nurse may arrange for you to see a doctor soon after this visit.
Routine lab work:
- Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) screening
- Cystic fibrosis (CF) – Find out if you carry the CF gene or your chances of this are low.
- Hemogram that checks for anemia or infection
- Blood type and Rh factor
- Antibody screen
- Hepatitis B Surface Antigen screening (for inflamed liver)
- VDRL (test to detect syphilis)
- Varicella Zoster Immune Status (test to see if you are immune to chicken pox)
- Rubella Immune Status (test to see if you are immune to German measles)
- Other tests may be ordered that you need
Checklist
- Tell your insurance company you are pregnant and ask these questions.
- Have your well water checked for nitrates, if applicable.
- Watch this video if you are considering prenatal genetic testing.
11-12 weeks
Visits for exams, tests or ultrasound
- First visit with midwife or doctor
- Complete routine lab work
- Hear your baby's heart beat for the first time
- Meet with the financial counselor to have a financial assessment and to get pre-registered for your hospital stay
20 weeks
Visits for exams, tests or ultrasound
- Midwife or doctor visit
- Ultrasound: See your baby, uterus and placenta. Bring home pictures.
- Maternal Serum Screen – This optional blood test shows your level of risk for giving birth to a baby with:
- Down’s Syndrome
- Trisomy 18
- Spina Bifida
Checklist
- Sign up for prenatal classes.
- Have you chosen a doctor for your baby? You can schedule a visit with a pediatrician or family practice doctor before you decide.
- Look into child care options.
- Review your employer’s policies on leave of absence, maternity leave, payroll, worker’s compensation and return to work after delivery.
24 weeks
Visits for exams, tests or ultrasound
28 weeks
Visits for exams, tests or ultrasound
- General prenatal exam and education with a nurse
- Blood tests
- Blood sugar test
- Hemoglobin (to check iron levels)
- If your blood type is Rh negative, you will also have:
- Rhogam shot
- Antibody screen (an extra blood test)
Checklist
- Purchase a car seat.
- Have your car seat checked by a certified car seat technician.
- Think about what you will do for birth control after your baby is born.
31-33 weeks
Visits for exams, tests or ultrasound
- General prenatal exam and preview visit with the nurse to:
- Discuss birth options and what you prefer.
- Learn what to expect in the hospital.
- Explain your special needs, if any.
- Sign forms and consents.
- Find out what resources we offer.
- Get answers to your questions.
- Prepare for as restful a hospital stay as possible.
Checklist
- Develop your birth plan.
- Verify your insurance coverage.
- Meet with the financial counselor, if not done previously in your pregnancy.
34 weeks
Visits for exams, tests or ultrasound
36 weeks
Visits for exams, tests or ultrasound
- General prenatal exam
- Vaginal culture to test for presence of group B strep
37-38 weeks
Visits for exams, tests or ultrasound
39 weeks
Visits for exams, tests or ultrasound
- Cervix exam as needed and prenatal exam
40 weeks - due date
Visits for exams, tests or ultrasound
- Cervix exam as needed and prenatal exam
41 weeks
Visits for exams, tests or ultrasound
- Ultrasound and prenatal exam
41.5 weeks
Visits for exams, tests or ultrasound
- Ultrasound and prenatal exam
